600 people threw missiles at Police and they have seized machetes and zombie knives after breaking up a large gathering at a Birmingham tower block in the early hours of this morning.
Our officers moved in to disperse the crowd in Faulkners Farm Drive, Erdington, at around midnight following concerns someone had discharged a firearm.
Police did this in order to protect the public as there were fears people were at serious risk of harm.
Five large knives were recovered from the location and one man arrested on suspicion of possessing a machete. He remains in custody for questioning.
Bottles and bricks were thrown at our officers as they went into the gathering; thankfully there were no serious injuries but some police vehicles were damaged.
Police are examining CCTV and drone footage as part of our investigation into the suspected shooting and we’ll also be looking to identify anyone responsible for attacking our officers.
Superintendent Sallie Churchill, said: “We believe at least one person, maybe more, had firearms and we’re looking into whether they were fired and if anyone was hurt.
“At this stage we’re not aware of anyone reporting at hospital with injuries consistent with a shooting but our enquiries continue.
“There were around 600 people at the block party and our officers went in to protect them amid fears guns were present and they were at risk.
“To be pelted with bricks and bottles for doing their job and trying to safeguard people is disgusting and totally unacceptable. We won’t tolerate attacks on our officers and we’ll be looking to find the people involved.”
We’ve cordoned off the scene while we carry out searches and forensic investigations.
A 21-year-old man remains in custody on suspicion of possessing a bladed weapon in public.
If you were there and saw anyone with a weapon, or have video footage or photos that could help, then please get in touch. Please quote log 2678 from 15 July.
You can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 if you have information. Callers won’t be asked for their names and calls cannot be traced.
